TNAG-1247-FCO40-1561-Press-reports-on-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 162

CONFIDENTIAL

Media Summary on Hong Kong's Future

Period: March 17, 1983

INTRODUCTION:

The visit of the Governor to London was widely reported by the papers, although there was less speculation than on his previous visits. Several right-wing and independent papers expressed again the hope that the views of local people would be made known_to_ the British Government.

The 'battle' between right and left-wing papers in Hong Kong appeared to be hotting up, with the former reporting the activities of pro-KMT organisations, including a petition to Government House, and the latter saying that China had been humiliated by such activities which did no good to HK's stability and prosperity. The Wen Wei Po criticised the 'HK British' Government for condoning such acts. The left-wing press reiterated the Chinese position on sovereignty and promoted the merits of the self-rule proposal.

The Ta Kung Pao held a seminar on HK's prospects which it fully reported, attributing various statements to those taking part without naming them. There was much reference to the beneficial effects of HK and China working together.

Finally, after much speculation about the future posting of China's Ambassador in London, Mr. Ke Hua, Cheng Ming said he would become the lieutenant of Mr. Liao Chengzhi in the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office.

The Seventies magazine interviewed several senior Government officers, including the Secretary for District Administration, Mr. David Akers-Jones. One observed local people were already running local affairs.

There was substantially less comment than last week about the future in he English-language newspapers.

ITEMS:

1.

GOVERNOR OFF TO LONDON:

The Governor left for London on 5 March for consultations with senior British

officials and the British Ambassador to China, Sir Percy Cradock, the local news media reported with pictorial coverage.

Earlier, a number of independent papers quoted a senior Government official saying Sir Edward would reflect local views, particularly those of the Executive Council, to the British Government. The visit was very important because it would enable the Prime Minister to meet both Sir Edward and Sir Percy. Wah Kiu said their discussions would help Mrs. Thatcher map out strategy for the talks in Beijing.

CONFIDENTIAL